If your skin becomes shiny throughout the day or feels oily soon after cleansing, you’re not alone. Oily skin is a common skin type, caused by the sebaceous glands producing more sebum than the skin needs. Sebum plays an important role in keeping our skin naturally moisturised and protected, so the aim isn’t to eliminate it. Instead, a gentle, consistent skincare routine can help keep skin feeling fresh, hydrated and healthy.
From choosing the right cleanser to understanding why moisturiser still matters, discover how to care for oily skin naturally.
What causes oily skin?
Our sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum, which helps protect the skin and prevent it from drying out. When these glands produce excess sebum, skin can appear shiny or greasy and pores may become more noticeable.
There are several reasons why your skin may produce more oil, including:
- Genetics – Your natural skin type is partly determined by your genetics.
- Age and hormones – Sebum production can change throughout different stages of life.
- Climate and season – You may notice that your skin becomes oilier during warmer or more humid weather.
- Using the wrong skincare products – Products that are too heavy or harsh may leave oily skin feeling unbalanced.
- Over-cleansing – Washing your face too frequently or using harsh cleansers can disrupt the skin barrier.
- Skipping moisturiser – Oily skin still needs hydration. Leaving it dehydrated can compromise the skin's natural balance.
What's the best skincare routine for oily skin?
Gentle cleansing and hydration can help keep the complexion feeling comfortable and balanced without overwhelming it.
1. Cleanse gently
Cleansing is an essential first step for oily skin, helping to remove excess sebum, daily impurities and skincare or make-up. Choose a gentle cleanser that effectively cleanses while respecting the skin's natural balance. ishga Active Cleansing Lotion is enriched with our unique Hebridean seaweed extract and gently removes daily impurities while leaving the complexion feeling refreshed and nourished. In the evening, you may also choose to double cleanse, particularly if you have been wearing make-up or SPF.
2. Exfoliate
Regular exfoliation can be particularly beneficial when caring for oily skin. It helps remove dead skin cells that can accumulate on the skin's surface and contribute to congested pores. Aim to gently exfoliate once or twice a week with our Exfoliating Face Mask. Avoid over-exfoliating as that can disrupt the skin barrier and leave your complexion feeling dry, sensitive or uncomfortable.
3. Follow with toner
After cleansing, a toner can help remove any remaining residue while refreshing and hydrating the complexion. ishga Hebridean Marine Toner combines our antioxidant-rich Hebridean seaweed extract with Hebridean spring water, seawater, aloe vera and cucumber for a refreshing step in your daily routine. Simply mist over cleansed skin or apply using a reusable cotton pad before following with your serum, face oil or moisturiser.
4. Hydrate with a lightweight moisturiser
One of the biggest misconceptions about oily skin is that it doesn't need moisturiser - oil and hydration aren't the same thing. Even if your complexion produces plenty of sebum, your skin still needs water and moisture to support a healthy skin barrier. A lightweight moisturiser such as our Balancing Marine Cream will provide effective hydration and nourishment without feeling overly rich.
Can I use face oil on oily skin?
Yes. Having oily skin doesn't automatically mean you need to avoid facial oils. The important thing is choosing a lightweight formula and using an appropriate amount for your skin. A nourishing face oil can complement your routine by supporting the skin barrier and helping to lock in moisture. Try applying a small amount and see how your skin responds.
Is seaweed good for oily skin?
Seaweed has multiple naturally nourishing properties make it the perfect ingredient for supporting oily skin. Here's how:
- Supports Skin Hydration - Seaweed contains naturally hydrating compounds, including polysaccharides and amino acids, which can help support moisture retention.
- Naturally Rich in Antioxidants - Antioxidants help protect the skin against oxidative stress caused by environmental factors, supporting a healthy, radiant complexion.
- Provides Natural Nourishment - Alongside antioxidants, seaweed contains an abundance of naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and other bioactive compounds. Our bespoke extraction process allows us to harness these powerful properties from freshly harvested Hebridean seaweed and incorporate them into our results-driven skincare.
